JBL Charge 4 vs Charge 5 — two of the most popular portable Bluetooth speakers from JBL. Both are built tough, sound incredible, and are made for people who love music on the move.
In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore what sets these two models apart, what they share in common, and which one truly gives you the best value for your money.
The JBL Charge 4 and Charge 5 both belong to JBL’s “Charge” lineup — speakers known for their strong bass, waterproof design, and power bank feature. They look similar, but under the surface,
there are meaningful differences in sound clarity, connectivity, and durability. Whether you’re planning a beach day, a backyard party, or an outdoor adventure, understanding these differences will help you make a smart choice.
Many users find it tricky to decide between the JBL Charge 4 and Charge 5 because they both deliver long battery life, rich bass, and waterproof protection. However, the Charge 5 takes things up a notch with improved sound detail,
dustproof protection, and JBL’s PartyBoost technology for better speaker pairing. On the other hand, the Charge 4 still remains a solid performer, offering almost the same battery power and ruggedness at a slightly lower price.
In this comparison, we’ll break down every key factor — from sound performance and build quality to connectivity and real-life usability. By the end, you’ll clearly see which speaker fits your lifestyle better: the reliable JBL Charge 4 or the upgraded JBL Charge 5. Let’s dive in.
JBL Charge 4 – Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The JBL Charge 4 is a tough, portable Bluetooth speaker designed for music lovers who want long playtime, clear sound,
and a durable body. With its strong bass and waterproof protection, it has earned a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts and travelers.
Detailed Overview
The JBL Charge 4 features wireless Bluetooth streaming that allows you to connect up to two smartphones or tablets at once. You and your friend can take turns playing
your favorite songs without any interruptions. Its powerful 7500mAh rechargeable battery offers up to 20 hours of playtime and even doubles as a power bank to charge your devices on the go.
This speaker is built for adventure with its IPX7 waterproof rating, meaning it can handle rain, splashes, or even full submersion in water.
JBL also includes its famous Connect+ feature, which lets you pair over 100 compatible JBL speakers together for a huge sound experience.
The rugged design is another major plus. The durable fabric material and rubberized exterior make it resistant to drops and dust. The dual passive bass radiators on each end deliver deep, resonant bass that makes music come alive.
What Is Good
✅ Powerful sound output: Rich, punchy bass with crisp highs suitable for all music genres.
✅ Long battery life: 20 hours of playtime keeps your tunes going all day.
✅ Waterproof design: Safe to use near water without worrying about damage.
✅ Multi-speaker pairing: Connect up to 100+ speakers with JBL Connect+ for bigger sound.
✅ Rugged durability: Ideal for outdoor use thanks to its tough build.
What Is Bad
❌ No dustproof rating: It’s waterproof but not protected from dust or sand.
❌ No dedicated tweeter: High frequencies aren’t as sharp as on newer models.
❌ Older connectivity system: Uses JBL Connect+ instead of the newer PartyBoost.
❌ No USB wall adapter included: You’ll need your own charger for the wall outlet.
Overall Verdict
The JBL Charge 4 remains an excellent choice for anyone who values long-lasting battery life, deep bass, and a speaker that can handle rough conditions. It’s especially great for outdoor lovers who need a waterproof,
portable speaker that won’t quit. While it lacks the advanced sound clarity and connectivity of the Charge 5, it still offers unbeatable durability and solid performance at a more budget-friendly price.
JBL Charge 5 – Bluetooth Speaker with Powerbank USB Charge out
The JBL Charge 5 takes everything great about the Charge 4 and improves it. It’s built for those who want stronger sound clarity, more detailed highs,
and better protection against outdoor elements. This upgraded version delivers JBL’s signature bass with a modern twist and superior connectivity.
Detailed Overview
Equipped with JBL Original Pro Sound, the Charge 5 offers more refined audio than its predecessor. It features an upgraded long excursion driver, a separate tweeter,
and dual bass radiators that combine to produce clean, powerful sound. The music feels richer, the bass hits deeper, and the vocals sound clearer — perfect for parties or outdoor gatherings.
Like the Charge 4, the Charge 5 also provides up to 20 hours of playtime. It includes a built-in powerbank that can charge your smartphone or
other devices while you’re listening. Wireless Bluetooth streaming allows you to connect two devices and take turns playing music effortlessly.
Another big upgrade is the IP67 rating, making the Charge 5 both waterproof and dustproof. You can confidently use it at the beach, pool, or hiking trail without worrying about sand or rain.
JBL’s PartyBoost feature replaces the older Connect+ and allows you to link multiple PartyBoost-enabled speakers for an immersive audio experience.
What Is Good
✅ Superior sound clarity: Separate tweeter and advanced driver create richer, detailed sound.
✅ IP67 waterproof and dustproof: Perfect for any outdoor condition.
✅ PartyBoost connectivity: Easier and more stable pairing with other JBL speakers.
✅ Modern design: Sleek and stylish with a bold front JBL logo.
✅ Reliable battery performance: 20 hours of nonstop playtime plus powerbank function.
What Is Bad
❌ No AUX input: Can’t connect wired devices.
❌ Price is slightly higher: Costs more than the Charge 4.
❌ No microphone function: You can’t use it for hands-free calls.
❌ PartyBoost not backward compatible: Can’t connect with older Connect+ speakers.
Overall Verdict
The JBL Charge 5 delivers premium performance with improved audio and protection. It’s ideal for users who want modern connectivity and top-tier sound in a portable speaker.
The combination of IP67 durability and JBL’s upgraded drivers makes it one of the best mid-range Bluetooth speakers today. If sound quality and outdoor reliability are your top priorities, the Charge 5 is worth the investment.
Common Features
Both the JBL Charge 4 and Charge 5 share many standout features that make them great choices for outdoor and indoor music enjoyment.
While the Charge 5 refines and upgrades several aspects, the foundation remains strong across both models. Here’s what they have in common:
- Powerful Sound Quality: Both models deliver bold, room-filling JBL sound with deep bass and crisp tones. The sound performance is balanced and loud enough for parties or personal listening.
- 20 Hours of Playtime: Each speaker is powered by a high-capacity Li-ion battery that supports up to 20 hours of nonstop play, perfect for long trips or outdoor adventures.
- Built-In Powerbank: Both can charge your devices using a USB output port, turning your speaker into an emergency charger when your phone battery runs low.
- Wireless Bluetooth Streaming: Both support wireless connections with up to two devices simultaneously, allowing smooth switching between phones or tablets.
- Waterproof Design: The Charge 4 and Charge 5 both feature an IPX7 waterproof rating, making them safe for poolside, beach, or shower use.
- Rugged Build: JBL’s use of durable fabric and rugged rubber housing ensures long-lasting performance even under rough conditions.
- Compact and Portable: Their cylindrical shape and manageable size make them easy to carry in backpacks, bike racks, or even in your hand.
- Signature JBL Bass Radiators: Dual passive radiators produce deep and rich bass that feels powerful without distortion.
These shared features show why both models have earned top ratings among users. Whether you choose the Charge 4 or Charge 5, you’ll get signature JBL reliability, impressive audio,
and all-day playtime. The main decision point comes down to whether you want the improved clarity and dustproof protection of the Charge 5 or the affordability and compatibility of the Charge 4.
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FAQs About JBL Charge 4 vs Charge 5
1. Which speaker has better sound quality?
The JBL Charge 5 has better sound quality thanks to its separate tweeter and advanced driver setup. It delivers clearer highs and richer mids than the Charge 4.
2. Can the JBL Charge 5 connect with Charge 4?
No. The Charge 5 uses JBL PartyBoost, while the Charge 4 uses JBL Connect+. These two systems are not compatible with each other.
3. Are both speakers waterproof?
Yes, both have an IPX7 waterproof rating, but the Charge 5 also adds dustproof protection with its IP67 rating.
4. Do they both support wired connections?
No. The Charge 4 has an AUX input for wired playback, while the Charge 5 only supports wireless Bluetooth streaming.
5. How long do the batteries last?
Both the JBL Charge 4 and Charge 5 offer up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge, depending on volume level and usage.
Conclusion
The battle of JBL Charge 4 vs Charge 5 shows just how much JBL has improved its speakers over the years. Both models are reliable, powerful, and perfect for outdoor adventures, but each appeals to a slightly different audience.
The JBL Charge 4 remains a fantastic value option with strong bass, waterproof protection, and long battery life. It’s ideal for budget-conscious users who still want premium sound and durability.
The JBL Charge 5, on the other hand, takes performance further with clearer sound, better connectivity, and dustproof protection. For those who prioritize the best audio quality and
future-ready features, it’s the smarter pick. Whichever model you choose, you’re guaranteed that unmistakable JBL power and quality that keeps the music alive wherever you go.